The cost of fuel to keep the region’s two emergency helicopters flying is a staggering £400 per hour, and that will only increase as the North West Air Ambulance charity approaches its busiest time of the year.

The life-saving EC135 helicopters get through over 200 litres of fuel per hour, and with the price of petrol showing no signs of decreasing, charity officials face finding another £30,000 each year to cover the costs.

Traditionally, from May onwards, the North West Air Ambulance which covers Greater Manchester. Merseyside, Cheshire, Lancashire and Cumbria reaches its busiest time, and at weekends the aircraft are often called out to incidents several times a day.

The charity now needs £4.3m a year and relies almost entirely on donations from the general public.

Charity chief executive Lynda Brislin said: “Everyone’s feeling the effects when they fill up with petrol and we’re no different.

“Our helicopters are lifesavers but we do use a large amount of fuel during the course of the year.

“And as we approach our busiest time of the year, I would urge people to continue supporting this fantastic charity so we can keep saving lives every day of the year.”

In March 2010 fuel costs for just one aircraft based at Blackpool were £3,500.

In March 2011 fuel costs for the Blackpool-based helicopter rose to £8,800, due to more call-outs and the constantly rising cost of aviation fuel.

Anyone wishing to donate to the North West Air Ambulance charity can do so by calling 0800 587 4570, or by post to: Freepost North West Air Ambulance, North Mersey Business Centre, Woodward Road, Knowsley, L33 7UY. All cheques should be crossed and payable to North West Air Ambulance.

Or logo on to www.nwaa.net for more details.

The North West Air Ambulance charity operates seven days a week, 365 days a year and has helicopters based at Barton in Salford and Blackpool in Lancashire.